[Publib] RE: OverDrive Download Stations

[Michael D. Logusz]

For Question 1: You must install iTunes for use with iPods:

Their site indicates that each PC with Overdrive would need to have iTunes installed to provide 
service to Apple devices. They provide a convenient link to download iTunes at the bottom of the
recommended setup procedures: http://www.overdrive.com/products/dlr/overdrivedownloadstation.asp.

Also, it sounds like they allow multiple PC installations, so basically *all* your computers could in
 essence be Overdrive Download Stations-at least for MP3 players, if you just install all the various
 Media Players, ActiveSync, Quicktime, Explorer and iTunes, which arespecified (and also conveniently provided) at the above link. 

Then provide USB cables (and/or CD burners for those who don’t have MP3 players to download to).

Don’t know about providing cables, dut to thefts/accidental walk-offs: Possibly a cart with cables and blank CDs could be an options so people
 have to request the cables?  Another option is buying hot-pink USB cables, but then you have to 
constantly ask people “is that the library's USB cable your walking off with?” and doesn’t prevent coiling up and theft, just 
inadvertent ‘walk offs’ (like ‘borrowed’ pencils). Possibly tying the cables in knots around a table leg 
would prevent *some* theft :)

The link I guy should provide the basis for an nice IT
'install disk' or folder so they can gather all the little
programs they need to install along with Overdrive itself.

Hope this helped a little.

Cheers,
Michael Logusz
UIL



---------------
Hello,

I'm interested in experiences with library implementation of the OverDrive Download Station. Specifically:

1.      Is iTunes also installed for customers who wish to download to Apple iPods?
2.      In the same vein, have you had issues arise with customers whose iPods are set to sync with iTunes?
3.      Does your library provide the USB  and iPod connector cables for patrons?
4.      Do you have any issues with customers using the Download Station to access the internet, bypassing the intended function?

Thank you for any information. I am open to any and all experiences, advice, etc. We are working closely with our IT department so I'd like to have as much information at ready for questions that may arise.

All the best,

Christopher Baker
Materials Selection Specialist
Gwinnett County Public Library
1001 Lawrenceville Hwy
Lawrenceville, GA 30045
770-822-5348